Zocor Lawsuit Centerhttp://zocorlawsuit-info.com
Zocor Lawsuit NewsWed, 15 Oct 2014 15:41:10 +0000en-UShourly1http://wordpress.org/?v=3.7.1TV Advertising Promotes Unnecessary Statin Use, Says Studyhttp://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2013/09/tv-advertising-promotes-unnecessary-statin-use-says-study/
http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2013/09/tv-advertising-promotes-unnecessary-statin-use-says-study/#commentsMon, 16 Sep 2013 22:31:13 +0000http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/?p=3500Read more »]]>Aggressive marketing tactics for Zocor, Lipitor and other cholesterol drugs are prompting low-risk individuals to take them unnecessarily, and exposing themselves to potentially serious statin side effects, according to a recent study. The research also suggests that such advertising actually deters individuals at a higher risk of heart disease from taking the products.

The research reviewed the effect on viewers of advertisements for a number of cholesterol drugs known as statins. Lipitor, Crestor, Zocor and other statins are among the top selling drugs in the United States, generating nearly $15 billion in combined sales each year. It indicated that the heavy marketing of the drugs increased the likelihood of an individual being diagnosed with high cholesterol, and the likelihood that someone would begin using the medication. These new users were largely categorized as low risk for heart disease.

The study, published last month in the Journal of General Internal Medicine, emerged amid growing concern about the widespread use of statins, which can increase the risk of diabetes, muscle injury and kidney damage, and cause a range of other health problems. It collated data taken from more than 100,000 adults, as well as data on the frequency of direct-to-consumer advertising (DTCA) on television from 2001 to 2007 and found that exposure to commercials increased the odds of being diagnosed with high cholesterol by between 16-20%. People who began using statins after watching the commercials were almost exclusively in the “low-risk” group for heart disease.

The research indicates that DTCA may promote self-diagnosis and over-diagnosis of high cholesterol, even where the risks of statin side effects may outweigh the potential benefits.

Statin side effects include diabetes

Statins are among the western world’s top selling drugs. Crestor, for example, has achieved global sales of $6.6 billion. They work by blocking the action of a cholesterol-producing enzyme in the liver. Statins are commonly prescribed to patients at risk of heart attacks or strokes.

But a number of statin side effects have been reported by patients. including:

Muscle pain and wastage

Cardiac arrhythmia

Muscle pain or tenderness

Fever

Dark coloured urine or pain whilst urinating

Swelling or weight gain

Nausea

Itching

Loss of appetite

In February 2012, the FDA announced new diabetes warnings for some statins, including Lipitor. The warnings would inform users for the first time that they may face an increased risk of changes to blood glucose levels. One study found that statin users overall face around a 9% increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

The maker of Lipitor, Pfizer, is currently facing a growing number of lawsuits regarding their product. Complaints allege that the drug has left them with diabetes and other health complications. Merck, the company behind Zocor, has faced similar allegations. One Zocor lawsuit, filed in Missouri in 2004, claimed the product caused his cardiac problems. Merck has successfully dismissed multiple lawsuits, with one Texas jury deciding that Zocor’s warning labels were FDA approved. In the same Zocor lawsuit, the court stated that the plaintiff “failed to provide medical records of muscular illness in a timely manner.”

]]>http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2013/09/tv-advertising-promotes-unnecessary-statin-use-says-study/feed/0New Statin Study Finds Greater Likelihood of Zocor Muscle Injuryhttp://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2013/07/new-statin-study-finds-greater-likelihood-zocor-muscle-injury/
http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2013/07/new-statin-study-finds-greater-likelihood-zocor-muscle-injury/#commentsSun, 07 Jul 2013 19:47:25 +0000http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/?p=3487Read more »]]>A new study on statins published in the American Medical Association’s JAMA Internal Medicine journal finds that the popular anti-cholesterol drugs are associated with an elevated likelihood of musculoskeletal adverse events, especially in patients who are physically active.

Patients in the study who were taking medications like Lipitor, Crestor, and Zocor were more likely than similar patients not taking statins to suffer from musculoskeletal diseases, muscle and joint injuries, and muscle pain. The study treated the statins as a single category and did not assess the particular likelihood of a Zocor muscle injury when compared to the risk of injury from other statins.

Zocor side effects

The most common side effects reported by Zocor patients in clinical trials were respiratory infection, headaches, nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. However, clinical trials as well as post-marketing experience, FDA adverse event reports, and medical studies reveal less common but far more serious side effects, including hyperglycemia, diabetes, liver damage, neurological problems, and myopathy, or muscle injury.

While most incidences of myopathy are limited to causing muscle and joint pain, muscle problems caused by Zocor can range from the painful to the deadly. A very serious Zocor muscle injury called rhabdomyolysis occurs when muscle fibers break down, releasing a cascade of proteins into the blood stream at a rate that the kidneys often cannot process. These proteins, called myoglobins, can cause kidney failure and in severe cases can lead to death. Rhabdomyolysis is also extremely painful and can cause nausea, vomiting, confusion, coma, and heart arrhythmia. A 2002 study found that Zocor was cited as a cause of rhabdomyolysis in more reports to the FDA than any other statin.

FDA Zocor muscle injury warning

In 2002, the FDA warnings for Zocor were updated to indicate an increased risk of rhabdomyolysis when Zocor was taken with amiodarone, a heart medication often taken by patients who also take statins. In 2008, the FDA reiterated that warning, citing a continued influx of reports of rhabdomyolysis and other muscle injuries in patients treated with the two drugs concurrently. The FDA also pointed out that these conditions were dose-dependent and increased significantly in likelihood if the patients were given over 20 mg doses.

In 2010, the FDA warned Zocor consumers that the drug by itself could also cause muscle injury and rhabdomyolysis, especially in larger doses. In 2011 the FDA placed restrictions on the use of 80mg/day doses of Zocor, recommending that no new prescriptions for this high dose be issued and that patients who did not respond to 40mg doses be put on a different treatment instead of having their dosage increased.

Adverse Zocor side effects prompt litigation

On June 1, 2012, a Zocor side effects lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana against Zocor inventor Merck & Co., Inc., and generic Zocor producers Schering-Plough Corporation, Merck/Schering-Plough Pharmaceuticals, Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Teva Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, Inc. and Ranbaxy Laboratories, Inc.

This suit was filed as a class action on behalf of plaintiffs who suffered muscle injuries as a result of taking Zocor and alleges that the companies failed to warn doctors and patients about the risks of dangerous side effects like muscle injury and rhabdomyolysis. Other lawsuits around the country have made similar allegations against the companies.

]]>http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2013/07/new-statin-study-finds-greater-likelihood-zocor-muscle-injury/feed/0Benefits of Exercise Hampered by Zocor, Study Sayshttp://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2013/06/benefits-exercise-hampered-zocor-study-says/
http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2013/06/benefits-exercise-hampered-zocor-study-says/#commentsSat, 08 Jun 2013 00:43:54 +0000http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/?p=3475Read more »]]>Patients with high levels of cholesterol, particularly low-density lipoproteins (LDL), are often prescribed statin drugs and a routine of cardiovascular exercise to help combat negative effects and lower lipid profiles to a healthy level. However, new research shows that simvastatin-containing medications such as Zocor may decrease the overall benefits of exercise, leaving patients with an impaired ability to improve both muscle mass and cardiorespiratory fitness levels despite weekly intervals of rigorous physical activity.

Researchers determined that Zocor side effects include a negative impact on exercise adaptations, as simvastatin was shown to stunt muscle synthase activity among the study’s participants.

Zocor impairs health benefits of exercise

A team of researchers at the University of Missouri performed a randomized study that included 37 people who had high cholesterol levels and had not engaged in regular physical activity within the last twelve months. The Zocor side effects research split the participants into two groups who were instructed to participate in a regular exercise regimen, and only of which was given 40 mg of simvastatin daily. The non-Zocor group witnessed a 10 percent increase in cardiorespitary fitness, while the participants who were exposed to the statin only saw a 1.5 percent boost in fitness. The exercise program consisted of five days of brisk walking or jogging on a treadmill each week.

During the course of the three-month study, the patients who took Zocor experienced a 4.5 percent decrease in skeletal muscle citrate synthase activity, which enables the muscle cells to convert oxygen and sugar into energy. The exercise only group demonstrated a 13 percent increase in this ability. The findings, which were published in The Journal of American Cardiology, reveal that a Zocor muscle injury isn’t the only risk associated with the cholesterol lowering statin.

FDA warns consumers of Zocor muscle injury risks

Adverse side effects of Zocor have been the subject of FDA warnings and mounting litigation, as patients who ingested the drug were later diagnosed with a range of health complications such as rhabdomyolysis, liver damage and myopathy – a disease of the muscles.

In 2011 the FDA issued a communication that cautioned 80 mg doses of Zocor were linked to an increased risk for muscle injury, and encouraged patients to report their adverse side effects from simvastatin-containing medications to the FDA MedWatch program. The FDA Zocor warning stated:

“The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is recommending limiting the use of the highest approved dose of the cholesterol-lowering medication, simvastatin (80 mg) because of increased risk of muscle damage. Simvastatin 80 mg should be used only in patients who have been taking this dose for 12 months or more without evidence of muscle injury (myopathy). Simvastatin 80 mg should not be started in new patients, including patients already taking lower doses of the drug. In addition to these new limitations, FDA is requiring changes to the simvastatin label to add new contraindications (should not be used with certain medications) and dose limitations for using simvastatin with certain medicines.”

The FDA has updated the labels for simvastatin (Zocor) and Vytorin to include the new restrictions for the 80 mg dose. Patients who are currently taking a medicine that contains simvastatin should be aware that Zocor muscle injury is more prevalent under the following circumstances:

When combined with other drugs which can increase the levels of simvastatin in the blood (such as Itraconazole or Ketaconazole)

Patients who have a genetic predisposition for simvastatin related muscle injury

]]>http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2013/06/benefits-exercise-hampered-zocor-study-says/feed/0Zocor Side Effects Include Kidney Damage, According to New Researchhttp://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2013/05/zocor-side-effects-include-kidney-damage-according-new-research/
http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2013/05/zocor-side-effects-include-kidney-damage-according-new-research/#commentsFri, 10 May 2013 14:40:46 +0000http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/?p=3465Read more »]]>In a new study published by the British Medical Journal, researchers claim that cholesterol medications including Zocor, Lipitor and Crestor may increase the risk of kidney damage. A Canadian research team found that the high-potency statins resulted in a 34% increase in the likelihood of hospitalization for acute kidney injuries. The news comes after a 2011 FDA-imposed dosage restriction that cited an increased risk of Zocor side effects including myopathy and rhabdomyolysis.

The research team analyzed data from more than two million American, British and Canadian patients who had taken high-potency statins, a class of medications designed to lower cholesterol by reducing levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), which is a major contributor to coronary artery disease. Cholesterol medication is one of the biggest sellers in the United States, with combined sales in excess of $14.5 billion in 2008 alone.

The study looked at patients who took the medication for the first time between January 1, 1997 and April 30, 2008. Researchers compared the rates of kidney-related hospitalizations.

Of the two million, 4,691 patients were admitted to the hospital for non-chronic kidney problems. An additional 1,896 patients were hospitalized for chronic kidney injury. Researchers found that patients on Crestor, Lipitor or Zocor were more likely to be hospitalized than those who did not take the drugs.

Serious Zocor side effects supported by other studies

Previous medical research has shown that around 1 in 10,000 statin users have developed a muscle condition known as rhabdomyolysis, a rare condition that releases potentially-fatal myoglobin into the bloodstream.

In 2011, in response to negative publicity surrounding Zocor side effects, the FDA placed dosage restrictions on the drug, limiting patients to two daily doses of 40mg. The restriction was designed to deal with the reported risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis.

On February 28, 2012, the FDA issued a safety communication informing physicians and patients of changes to the labeling on all cholesterol drugs. The changes give patients more information regarding the safe use of statins. These include routine monitoring of liver enzymes. However, the FDA “continues to believe that the cardiovascular benefits of statins outweigh these small increased risks.”

On March 1, 2012, The FDA issued another safety communication stating that drugs for HIV patients and hep C patients, could, when combined with Zocor, increase the risk of muscle injury.

Litigation sparked by Zocor side effects

Statins like Zocor, Lipitor and Crestor have all been subject to allegations of a link between reductase inhibitors and rhabdomyolysis. Anyone who has been affected by health complications resulting from statins may qualify for a Zocor lawsuit. A qualified Zocor lawyer can help establish liability, and hold the manufacturers responsible for failing to warn consumers about drug risks. A successful lawsuit can help patients recover compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other losses.

British Medical Journal, Use of high potency statins and rates of admission for acute kidney injury: multicenter, retrospective observational analysis of administrative databases http://www.bmj.com/content/346/bmj.f880

In the years since its launch, the drug has been linked with serious Zocor side effects like muscle weakness and pain, muscle wasting, and kidney failure. Though there has been no Zocor recall, the FDA has issued warnings along the way to protect the most susceptible populations.

Early FDA warnings concerning Zocor side effects

As early as 2008, the FDA warned physicians and patients about unique Zocor side effects. On August 8 of that year, the agency notified the public about the risk of “a rare condition of muscle injury called rhabdomyolysis, which can lead to kidney failure or death, when simvastatin is used with amiodarone.”

Amiodarone is prescribed for patients who have heart rhythm problems, or “arrhythmia.” Since these issues often exist together with high cholesterol levels, many patients were taking both medications. The FDA warned that the risk of muscle injury was dose-related. In other words, the higher the dose of Zocor, the higher the risk of side effects. Reports of rhabdomyolysis were more likely with Zocor doses of 20 mg or more.

FDA issues another warning concerning Zocor dosage

On March 29, 2010, the FDA issued another warning—this time about muscle injury related to Zocor use alone. The agency focused on the highest dose of the drug, 80 mg. Patients taking this dose could have a greater risk of developing muscle injury, including rhabdomyolysis, the FDA stated. They advised healthcare professionals to consider the potential risks before prescribing this dose.

Rhabdomyolysis is a condition in which damaged muscle tissue breaks down quickly, with waste products flooding the bloodstream. As the kidneys struggle to clean the blood of this waste, they can become overloaded, leading to kidney failure. Symptoms may include muscle pain and weakness, painful or bruised areas of the body, digestive issues like nausea and vomiting, general feelings of malaise, fever, and dark-colored urine. Following this warning, many injured patients filed Zocor lawsuits to recover damages.

FDA cautions of risk of stroke associated with Zocor

On May 26, 2011, the FDA issued a statement on the AIM-HIGH trial, which studied the effects of raising HDL “good” cholesterol and lowering LDL “bad” cholesterol in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease. All participants in the trial were given Zocor at 40 mg per day, and then randomly assigned to receive either extended-release niacin or a placebo.

The trial was stopped early because of a lack of observed benefits. In addition, according to the FDA, “A small, unexplained, increase in the rate of ischemic stroke was noted in the simvastatin plus extended-release niacin group compared to the simvastatin group alone.”

FDA limits use of 80 mg dose, but no Zocor recall

On June 8, 2011, the FDA recommended that doctors “sharply curtail” the use of the highest 80 mg dose of Zocor because of risk of Zocor side effects like muscle injury. They stated that only patients who had already been taking this dose for a year or more should continue taking it.

“Our overall goal is to get doctors to not start patients on 80 mg of simvastatin,” said Eric Colman, M.D., deputy director of FDA’s Division of Metabolism and Endocrinology Products. For patients experiencing inadequate results from the 40 mg dose, the FDA recommended doctors choose a different statin rather than raise the Zocor dose.

The agency required revised drug labels to include the new restrictions. They also noted that older age and female gender increased the risk of muscle injury, and advised doctors of dangerous drug interactions with specific other medications.

FDA warns of potential liver damage

On February 28, 2012, the FDA issued a safety communication notifying physicians and patients of label changes to all cholesterol-lowering drugs, including Zocor.

The changes provide patients with more information for the safe use of statins, including the need for routine monitoring of liver enzymes (to rule out liver damage), and information about reports of increased blood sugar levels associated with statins. No Zocor recall was issued, however, because the “FDA continues to believe that the cardiovascular benefits of statins outweigh these small increased risks.”

The most recent FDA warning occurred on March 1, 2012. The FDA issued a safety communication stating that drugs for HIV patients and hepatitis C patients, when combined with statins like Zocor, could increase the risk for muscle injury. They concluded that the use of simvastatin with these types of drugs was contraindicated.

]]>http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2013/02/review-fda-zocor-warnings/feed/0New Study Shows Anti-Cancer Side Effects of Zocorhttp://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2013/01/new-study-shows-anti-cancer-side-effects-of-zocor/
http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2013/01/new-study-shows-anti-cancer-side-effects-of-zocor/#commentsTue, 29 Jan 2013 19:51:59 +0000http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/?p=3398Read more »]]>Zocor is the brand-name for simvastatin, one of a group of drugs called HMG CoA reductase inhibitors – commonly known as statins. The medication works by reducing the body’s levels of ‘bad’ cholesterol and increasing ‘good’ cholesterol. Zocor and other statins are usually prescribed to lower a patient’s risk of stroke and heart disease.

A recent study suggests some statins possess anti-cancer properties. Presented at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium (SABCS) in December 2012, the study found a slight reduction in cancer risk among women taking statins compared to a control group not using the drug. The results showed women with inflammatory breast cancer had longer periods where the disease was stable if they had a history of using statins.

However, there was no suggestion that using statins decreased the risk of developing breast cancer. Lead investigator Pinkal Desai looked at 154,587 postmenopausal women. Statin users and non-users were diagnosed with breast cancer at an equal yearly rate of 0.42%.

Keeping breast cancer at bay

TexasUniversity’s Naoto T. Ueno reviewed the records of 725 women diagnosed with and treated for stage III breast cancer between 1995 and 2011. The research showed women who did not take statins had an average of 1.76 years of disease-free survival (DFS). Women who took lipophilic statins – including Zocor – averaged 2.47 years of DFS. However, the report noted that statin use “did not extend overall survival in a statistically measurable way”.

Serious side effects of Zocor

However, there are a number of adverse side effects associated with taking Zocor. Among the more common are headaches, joint pain, constipation, indigestion, mild rash, insomnia and cold symptoms.

Some of the more serious side effects of Zocor may indicate that patients have had an allergic reaction, These include:

Muscle pain, tenderness or weakness

Fever

Painful urination

Discolored urination

Swelling and weight gain

Nausea, jaundice

Rhabdomyolysis: a potentially fatal condition

Some of the above complications may suggest rhabdomyolysis, a rare, potentially fatal condition. It occurs when tissues begin to break down, releasing muscle proteins into the bloodstream. In 2011, the FDA issued a warning about the link between Zocor and rhabdomyolysis, specifically referring to high dosage prescriptions of 80 mg and more.

Side effects spark many to file a Zocor lawsuit

Statins similar to Zocor have already been subject to complaints alleging a link between reductase inhibitors and the onset of rhabdomyolysis. Anyone who has been affected by complications arising from simvastatin may qualify for a Zocor lawsuit.

A Zocor muscle injury lawyer can help establish liability in a legal claim and hold the manufacturers responsible for failure to warn and selling a potentially defective drug. Successful litigation can help a patient recover compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other losses.

]]>http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2013/01/new-study-shows-anti-cancer-side-effects-of-zocor/feed/0Merck Expects IMPROVE-IT Study Results By 2014http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2013/01/merck-expects-improve-it-study-results-2014/
http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2013/01/merck-expects-improve-it-study-results-2014/#commentsTue, 15 Jan 2013 16:34:51 +0000http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/?p=3388Read more »]]>Zocor , a cholesterol-lowering statin, has been the subject of controversy in recent years, as many patients who took the medication reported health complications, ranging from gastrointestinal side effects and liver damage to severe muscle injury. Zocor manufacturer, Merck & Co. recently announced that it expects preliminary data from its IMPROVE-IT study by 2014. The question of the large-scale clinical trial, which includes more than 18,000 patients, is whether giving Zetia and Zocor together – in a new drug called Vytorin – prevents more strokes and heart attacks than Zocor alone. Also known by its generic name of simvastatin, Zocor works in a similar way as Lipitor – another popular statin.

Zocor lawsuits allege adverse health events

Simvastatin functions by reducing the amount of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or bad cholesterol, in the blood. Vytorin and Zetia are two of Merck’s top-selling medications, with annual sales exceeding $4 billion last year. The drug manufacturer is hoping that positive results from the IMROVE-IT study will spark improved sales, after doubts over the medication’s efficacy and safety have been questioned.

The FDA currently cautions both health care providers and consumers to report side effects of Zocor, Vytorin or Zetia to the agency’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program.

FDA warns of Zocor side effects

In June 2011, the FDA issued a warning about the dangerous side effects of Zocor, alerting consumers to the increased risk of muscle injuries among patients taking doses of 80mg. The agency stated that this maximum dosage was not recommended for new patients. The safety communication also linked Zocor with rhabdomyolysis – a severe type of myopathy where muscle fibers break down, sometimes leading to kidney failure and even death. Incidences of this condition increase greatly when Zocor is taken with antifungal drugs (such as itraconazole and ketoconazole), as well as HIV protease inhibitors, the antidepressant nefazodone, and cyclosporine.

Zocor lawyer can help patients seek legal recourse

After the FDA warning was issued, patients around the country learned of the risk of hazardous side effects from simvastatin, and some have already contacted a Zocor lawyer to discuss their legal options. To date, Zocor lawsuits have not been centralized in multidistrict litigation (MDL) or a class action suit, although this is a possibility for the near future.

]]>http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2013/01/merck-expects-improve-it-study-results-2014/feed/0Rhabdomyolysis Linked to Kidney Failure In Zocor Usershttp://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/12/rhabdomyolysis-linked-kidney-failure-zocor-users/
http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/12/rhabdomyolysis-linked-kidney-failure-zocor-users/#commentsWed, 19 Dec 2012 07:22:31 +0000http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/?p=3376Read more »]]>Rhabdomyolysis is a type of severe and rare muscle injury that has been linked to high dosages of statin drugs, including Zocor and its generic, simvastatin. In the event of rhabdomyolysis, a lawsuit can help recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and even wrongful death. People who have suffered muscle injury or rhabdomyolysis after using the cholesterol drug have contacted a Zocor lawyer to discuss their legal options.

What is rhabdomyolysis?

With the use of Zocor, a possible side effect is that a person’s tissues begin to break down and release muscle proteins into the bloodstream. As these proteins build up, they can clog the kidney, causing kidney failure and, eventually, rhabdomyolysis. Rhabdomyolysis is a rare condition that can be fatal if left untreated. Fortunately, evidence suggests that discontinuation of Zocor may reverse muscular breakdown and also rhabdomyolysis. Nevertheless, this condition is very dangerous.

Symptoms of Zocor muscle injury

Muscle breakdown, which is a precursor to rhabdomyolysis, can begin with dark colored urine, muscle weakness, and muscle pain. As muscle breakdown progresses toward rhabdomyolysis, patients may experience nausea, tenderness, fever, and other symptoms. In 2001, after more than 50 deaths linking Baycol (a statin drug similar to Zocor) and rhabdomyolysis were reported to the FDA, the FDA recalled the drug. Similar allegations have been reported to the FDA regarding Zocor and other statins as well, including Crestor and Lipitor.

FDA issues warning linking Zocor to rhabdomyolysis

In 2011, the FDA issued a consumer warning regarding rhabdomyolysis and its link to Zocor. The FDA warning related specifically to high dosages of Zocor (80 mg) and its generic equivalent, simvastatin. Additionally, the FDA warned consumers of other side effects, including liver damage, muscle injuries, and diabetes.

Zocor lawsuit compensation

Consumers who have been injured by either Zocor or simvastatin are advised to contact a Zocor lawyer to see if they eligible to file litigation to hold the drug manufacturer liable for monetary compensation. A Zocor lawsuit can help recover damages for pain and suffering, medical expenses, and even wrongful death.

]]>http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/12/rhabdomyolysis-linked-kidney-failure-zocor-users/feed/0Plaintiff Seeks Damages for Zocor Muscle Injuryhttp://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/12/plaintiff-seeks-damages-for-zocor-muscle-injury/
http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/12/plaintiff-seeks-damages-for-zocor-muscle-injury/#commentsTue, 04 Dec 2012 20:45:46 +0000http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/?p=3358Read more »]]>In a new Zocor lawsuit a man claims that the cholesterol lowering medication caused him to suffer serious muscle damage. Plaintiff Robert Rosenberg filed his complaint on October 5, 2012, in the U.S. District Court, District of Nevada, and is seeking compensation based on a number of causes of action including negligence, fraud, strict product liability and breach of express warranty.

Zocor lawsuit

Rosenberg’s Zocor lawyer names as the defendants Merck & Co. as well as Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Teva Pharmaceuticals, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories and Ranbaxy Laboratories, all companies that were involved in the manufacturing or distribution of the drug.

In 2010, the SEARCH (Study of the Effectiveness of Additional Reductions in Cholesterol and Homocysteine) study linked Zocor, also known by its generic name Simvastian, to Zocor muscle injury, including a potentially life-threatening condition known as rhabdomyolysis. The study showed that the side effects were more likely to occur at doses of 80 milligrams, and the FDA used this information to require a warning label change for Zocor.

Defendant failed to warn of adverse side effects

The plaintiff in this case claims that he took Zocor as prescribed by his physician from July 2007 through February 2010. He further alleges that his muscle damage and weakness are direct result of ingesting the medication. The side effects, he claims, have caused him to suffer physical injuries, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, lost wages and a host of other damages. In the Zocor lawsuit, Rosenberg asserts that Merck & Co. had a responsibility to warn patients of the possibility of injury associated with the drug, but that the company failed to adequately do so.

Zocor muscle injury a common complaint

Rosenberg, like numerous other patients who took the statin drug and sustained muscle injuries, is holding drug manufacturer Merck & Co. liable. Symptoms of Zocor muscle injury generally include muscle pain and weakness, unexplained fatigue, joint pain, and inflammation. Patients who have suffered muscle injury or other serious side effects after taking the medication are encouraged to contact a Zocor lawyer.

]]>http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/12/plaintiff-seeks-damages-for-zocor-muscle-injury/feed/0U.K. Agency Limits Zocor Doses To Help Prevent Muscle Injuryhttp://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/11/u-k-agency-limits-zocor-doses-help-prevent-muscle-injury/
http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/11/u-k-agency-limits-zocor-doses-help-prevent-muscle-injury/#commentsTue, 20 Nov 2012 07:19:01 +0000http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/?p=3348Read more »]]>The U.K.’s Medicines and Healthcare Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has opted to slash the highest legal doses of Zocor and its generic equivalent, simvastatin, in half, in order to help lower the risks of muscle injury associated with the product.

On October 29, the agency announced that it would limit doses of the cholesterol-regulating drug to 20 milligrams. High doses of the drug have been linked to a variety of muscle conditions, including myopathy and rhabdomyolysis. Rhabdomyolysis occurs when muscle fibers break down, a deterioration that releases the protein myoglobin into the bloodstream, causing injury to the kidneys. Most patients who experience the condition are over 65 years of age, or suffer from conditions such as renal impairment or hypothyroidism.

Dosing change to protect against Zocor muscle injury

This move in the U.K. follows the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s lead, which limited the drug to 10 milligram doses until late last year, when it relaxed the limitation to 20 milligram doses. The FDA changed the dosing requirements because of high numbers of complaints of Zocor muscle injury. The cholesterol drug is one of Merck & Co.’s best selling drugs, bringing in $4.3 billion dollars in 2005, which was the year its patents expired.

Many people seek help from Zocor lawyer

Many people who have ingested the drugs at high doses and later experienced muscle injury have sought relief through lawsuits against Merck. There is a Zocor class action lawsuit currently pending; most of the plaintiffs in this case claim to have taken the drug in accordance with their doctor’s prescription, and allege that they could not have known the dangers associated with the drug because of negligence on Merck’s part. They have sought the assistance of a Zocor lawyer to assist them through the complex and often lengthy litigation.

The FDA first approved the drug for distribution in the U.S. in 1998, but by 2010 the government organization issued a public safety communication noting the link between Zocor and a heightened risk of muscle injury. A study at the time showed that 11% of patients who took 80-milligram doses suffered muscle injuries, spawning a surge in the number of Zocor lawsuit claims against Merck.

]]>http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/11/u-k-agency-limits-zocor-doses-help-prevent-muscle-injury/feed/0Zocor Lawsuits Charge Muscle Injury and Other Side Effectshttp://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/11/zocor-lawsuits-charge-muscle-injury-other-side-effects/
http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/11/zocor-lawsuits-charge-muscle-injury-other-side-effects/#commentsThu, 08 Nov 2012 08:06:33 +0000http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/?p=3334Read more »]]>Zocor, a prescription drug to lower cholesterol, has been linked to severe muscle injury, including life-threatening Zocor rhabdomyolysis. After an official FDA warning in 2011, patients around the country learned of the risk of side effects, and some have already contacted a Zocor lawyer to discuss their legal options. Zocor lawsuits have not yet been consolidated into a class action or MDL, although this is a possibility for the near future.

11% of patients may develop Zocor rhabdomyolysis

Zocor, or simvastatin, is a prescription cholesterol drug in the HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor drug class, also known as statins. Statins, including Zocor, reduce “bad cholesterol” (low-density lipoprotein, or LDL) while increasing “good cholesterol” (high-density lipoprotein, or HDL). While the FDA first approved Zocor in 1998, it wasn’t until 2010 that the agency acknowledged the link to muscle injury. After one study showed that 11% of patients on simvastatin (80 mg) developed Zocor rhabdomyolysis, the FDA in June 2011 issued an official warning regarding muscle injury. Furthermore, the FDA recommended that no new patients be prescribed the maximum (80 mg) dose.

Zocor muscle injury can be life threatening

Muscle injury is most common during the first 12 months of use (80 mg dose) or when taken with other drugs that increase simvastatin levels. Patients who are genetically predisposed to simvastatin-related muscle injury are also at risk. The most common types of muscle injury include:

Myopathy: A muscle disease that can cause weakness, pain, tenderness, and wasting. The most common form is called myalgia, and entails mild to sever muscle pain that worsens with activity. This condition may signal the beginning of muscle breakdown.

Rhabdomyolysis: This is a rare and very severe form of muscle disease. A patient with rhabdomyolysis will experience rapid muscle breakdown. The substances released from deteriorating muscles can damage the kidneys, causing kidney failure, compartment syndrome, and/or disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).

Autoimmune necrotizing myopathy: This form of muscle injury is very serious, as it is an autoimmune disease and will not improve even after a patient discontinues use of Zocor.

Injured patients file Zocor lawsuits

Around the country, people injured by Zocor, and especially those who have experienced related muscle injury, have begun filing Zocor lawsuits. As the FDA warning was issued only a year ago, lawsuits currently proceed on an individual basis, but it is possible that they will be consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL) or a class action in the future. Currently, the best course of action for patients suffering muscle injury or other side effects is to contact a Zocor lawyer.

]]>http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/11/zocor-lawsuits-charge-muscle-injury-other-side-effects/feed/0Litigation Moves Forward For Plaintiff Injured By Zocorhttp://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/10/litigation-moves-forward-plaintiff-injured-zocor/
http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/10/litigation-moves-forward-plaintiff-injured-zocor/#commentsThu, 25 Oct 2012 04:06:07 +0000http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/?p=3319Read more »]]>In a case involving the prescription drug Zocor, a plaintiff hopes to soon have her case heard as part of a class action. In Harris v. Merck and Co., et. al., the plaintiff Kathleen Harris has come forward seeking damages from Merck and various other drug distribution and manufacturing defendants, alleging that the drug caused her to suffer muscle and kidney problems.

Working with her Zocor lawyer, she filed suit in the U.S. District Court, Western District of Louisiana, seeking relief based on a variety of claims including several product liability and unfair trade practices laws, negligent misrepresentation and negligent infliction of emotional distress.

Zocor lawyer encounters procedural complications

The plaintiff and her Zocor lawyer have encountered a number of complications throughout the litigation process, which is indicative of what patients must undergo in order to receive compensation for their often severe and debilitating injuries. After first working to remedy a situation in which they incorrectly sued Ranbaxy Pharmaceuticals as Ranbaxy Laboratories, Inc., the judge overseeing the case has granted a motion to strike some information from the complaint.

A judge will typically grant a Federal Rules of Civil Procedure 12(F) motion to strike when a party has pleaded an insufficient defense or any redundant, immaterial, impertinent or scandalous matter.

The plaintiff in this case asserts that she took Zocor or its generic equivalent, simvastin for cholesterol regulation from approximately August 2001 to January 2012. During that time, she suffered physical injuries, including Zocor muscle injury and kidney damage. She claims that the drugs have caused her serious consequences, including pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, lost wages and earning capacity, medical expenses and emotional distress.

FDA label change after study shows Zocor muscle injury risk

Though the FDA first approved the drug for distribution in the U.S. in 1998, it was in just 2010 that the FDA issued a press release concerning the link between Zocor and muscle injury, including rhabdomyolysis. A study showed that 11% of patients who took the drug at an 80-milligram dosage developed rhabdomyolysis, prompting the FDA to issue a label change to the drug.

Zocor lawsuits may require expert plaintiff attorneys

Such procedural complications are why it is essential to work with a Zocor attorney that has experience working in complex claims, particularly when it comes to class action claims such as the one at hand. In this Zocor case, which was originally filed on June 1, 2012, the plaintiff will likely continue to endure more procedural hiccups as the case goes on.

]]>http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/10/litigation-moves-forward-plaintiff-injured-zocor/feed/0Conflicting Research Linking Zocor and Pneumoniahttp://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/10/conflicting-research-linking-zocor-pneumonia/
http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/10/conflicting-research-linking-zocor-pneumonia/#commentsWed, 10 Oct 2012 01:12:54 +0000http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/?p=3312Read more »]]>Recent research on the link between statin use and pneumonia has yielded some conflicting results. Early observational studies indicated that statin use might lower a person’s risk of contracting pneumonia, suggesting drugs like Zocor might offer some positive benefit for those at risk of the illness. However, more recent studies have refuted those findings, first indicating that the relationship may not be as strong as first thought. The latest research suggests that statin use could actually increase the risk of pneumonia in some individuals.

Pneumonia Prevention and Zocor Side Effects

Early research conducted by Israeli scientists looked at 18,000 patients who were given rosuvastatin, a drug similar to Zocor, were 17 percent less likely to be diagnosed with pneumonia over a number of years. The study appeared to support previous research that showed individuals on statins who were diagnosed with serious infections like pneumonia were less likely to die from the condition.

However, another study conducted at the University of Michigan and reported in the American Journal of Medicine suggested that those initial findings were not as strong as first thought. When scientists factored in additional variables from the observational study, such as vaccinations and pneumonia severity, the correlation between statin use and lower pneumonia risk was much smaller.

Researchers concluded the evidence for prescribing statins as a means of preventing pneumonia was inadequate. In addition, risk of other side effects, such as Zocor muscle injury, should be taken into account when considering statin use as well.

A third study, conducted by researchers at the University of Texas, found that statin use may actually increase the incidence of pneumonia in some populations. After examining the medical records of 68,000 people, researchers determined that statin use could be a significant risk factor in a pneumonia diagnosis. Even when other factors, such as age, gender and condition frequency, were taken into account, the risk remained higher in statin users.

Zocor Muscle Injury

Conflicting research like this in a period of a few months suggests additional studies need to be done before a definite link between statin use and pneumonia. Clinical studies that include randomized trials are necessary to determine a true cause and effect between statin use and a pneumonia diagnosis. In the meantime, those considering statins need to know about the risk of side effects, including muscle injury, which can become serious and even life threatening in some patients.

Zocor muscle injury, also known as myopathy, is a serious concern for Zocor users. Symptoms of muscle injury include fatigue, joint pain and muscle weakness. If left unchecked, Zocor myopathy can develop into a more serious condition known as rhabdomyolysis, which can result in kidney failure and even death.

More than one injured user of the drug has contacted a Zocor lawyer to determine if they are eligible to seek compensation through litigation..

]]>http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/10/conflicting-research-linking-zocor-pneumonia/feed/0Zocor Associated with Increased Risk of Cataracts, Says Studyhttp://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/09/zocor-associated-increased-risk-cataracts-says-study/
http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/09/zocor-associated-increased-risk-cataracts-says-study/#commentsSat, 29 Sep 2012 04:02:55 +0000http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/?p=3293Read more »]]>A recent study finds that Zocor and other statin drugs may be linked to an increased risk of developing age-related cataracts. This news will likely add to Zocor lawsuit complaints, which cite other side effects including type 2 diabetes, muscle injury, rhabdomyolysis, and gastrointestinal disorders. Patients who have developed age-related cataracts or suffered other side effects should contact a Zocor lawyer for a free case evaluation. Some cases have been consolidated into joint litigation, such as the Zocor class action lawsuit currently underway in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana.

Statins some of the world’s bestselling drugs

Statins, a poplar drug class prescribed to lower blood cholesterol levels, are some of the world’s bestselling drugs. In fact, Lipitor (atorvastatin) is the world’s bestselling drug in history, at $130 billion in cumulative sales. And in 2012, simvastatin, the generic version of Zocor, was the #2 prescription drug in the United States. Additional statin drugs include Advicor (lovastatin/niacin extended-release), Altoprev (lovastatin extended-release), Crestor (rosuvastatin), Lescol (fluvastatin), Livalo (pitavastatin), Mevacor (lovastatin), Pravachol (pravastatin), Simcor (simvastatin/niacin extended-release), and Vytorin (simvastatin/ezetimibe).

Zocor lawyer: Diabetic statin-users exhibit highest cataract risk

A study published in the August 2012 issue of Optometry and Vision Science revealed that the use of statins may increase the risk of age-related cataracts. The study examined 6,400 University of Waterloo (Canada) patients throughout 2007 and 2008, and considered both statin medications and diabetes type 2 as risk factors for the development of cataracts. Researchers concluded that patients with diabetes exhibited an 82% increased risk, while statin users showed a 57% increase. Notably, diabetic patients on statins demonstrated the highest and fastest increase in risk of cataract development.

Side effects lead to Zocor lawsuit complaints

Diabetes and cataracts are not the only side effects associated with Zocor. In June 2011 the FDA issued a warning against muscle injury, including rhabdomyolysis, in patients taking the maximum dosage of Zocor (80mg). At that time, the FDA also recommended that doctors not prescribe the maximum dose to new patients. Zocor has also been linked to gastrointestinal conditions, including nausea, diarrhea, constipation, dyspepsia, and related pains. Psychological side effects include paranoia, depression, nightmares, and suicidal thoughts, while other risks include cranial nerve dysfunction, vertigo, hepatic failure, light hypersensitivity, and memory loss.

Many patients affected by simvastatin side effects have chosen to contact a Zocor lawyer to explore their legal options. For some, an individual Zocor lawsuit is appropriate, while others may be better served by joining the Zocor class action lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana.

]]>http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/09/zocor-associated-increased-risk-cataracts-says-study/feed/0Grapefruit Juice May Increase Side Effects of 80+ Popular Drugs Including Zocorhttp://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/09/grapefruit-juice-may-increase-side-effects-of-80-popular-drugs-including-zocor/
http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/09/grapefruit-juice-may-increase-side-effects-of-80-popular-drugs-including-zocor/#commentsWed, 12 Sep 2012 00:08:22 +0000http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/?p=3264Read more »]]>Since 2004, the FDA and Public Citizen have warned prescription drug users that fresh grapefruit juice could interfere with certain medications. In July 2012, the Public Citizen newsletter, Worst Pills, Best Pills, released an updated list of 82 medications that may be affected by fresh grapefruit juice. Depending on the drug, Public Citizen reports that the juice may cause too much or too little absorption into the bloodstream.

For patients taking Zocor or other statin drugs, grapefruit juice may cause a greater risk of side effects, including Zocor muscle injury. Injured patients should seek immediate medical attention. If you have suffered severe or life-altering side effects, you may be eligible to join the ranks of Zocor lawsuits seeking compensation for injuries and other damages.

Grapefruit juice increases risk of Zocor muscle injury

For many prescription medications, and a handful of over-the-counter drugs, an enzyme in the small intestine known as CYP3A4 aids in drug metabolization. However, certain substances contained in grapefruit juice may actually block CYP3A4, therefore increasing absorption of medication ingredients. When this occurs, instead of metabolizing and ridding the body of excess medication, the body absorbs more of the drug than it should. This causes a greater risk of side effects.

In July 2012, Public Citizen updated its list of drugs that have poor interaction with grapefruit juice. Zocor was included on the list, as were other popular medications, including Benadryl, Celexa, Coumadin, Haldol, Lipitor, Multaq, Paxil, Prilosec, Propulsid, Prozac, Seroquel, Serzone, Tegretol, Valium, Viagra, Viracept, Zoloft, Zocor, and others.

Patients should limit or eliminate juice from their diet

Statin drugs, including Zocor (simvastatin), are one of the major drug classes that should not mix with grapefruit juice. Grapefruit juice increases absorption of drugs like Zocor, which is designed to lower cholesterol. And the interactions are not limited to immediate cause and effect: experts recommend that patients taking Zocor limit or eliminate their consumption of grapefruit juice during the duration of their treatment. Markedly, even drinking the juice several hours after taking the medication can increase a patient’s risk of developing Zocor side effects.

Patients file Zocor lawsuits after experiencing serious side effects

Zocor side effects can be severe and life threatening. One of the most dangerous risks is that of Zocor muscle injury, which includes conditions known as myopathy, rhabdomyolysis and autoimmune necrotizing myopathy. Notably, autoimmune necrotizing myopathy is a permanent effect of Zocor muscle injury and will not dissipate even after discontinuing use of the cholesterol medication. Many affected patients have chosen to file Zocor lawsuits in order to seek compensation for medical costs, pain and suffering, and other damages.

]]>http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/09/grapefruit-juice-may-increase-side-effects-of-80-popular-drugs-including-zocor/feed/0Study Analysis Finds Statin Benefits Outweigh Statistical Riskshttp://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/08/study-analysis-finds-statin-benefits-outweigh-statistical-risks/
http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/08/study-analysis-finds-statin-benefits-outweigh-statistical-risks/#commentsWed, 29 Aug 2012 00:25:28 +0000http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/?p=3279Read more »]]>In August 2012, The Lancet published an analysis of the JUPITER trial, and stated that the benefits of statin medications outweigh the risks of developing diabetes, even in participants at high risk for developing the disease. Researchers based their conclusions primarily on a calculation of avoided deaths versus new cases of diabetes. Notably, the trial was funded by AstraZeneca, the manufacturer of Crestor (rosuvastatin) – another cholesterol medication in the statin drug class, and the medication utilized in the trial.

It is unclear whether these results extend to Zocor, Lipitor and other statins. In addition to diabetes, the list of Zocor side effects encompasses liver damage, rhabdomyolysis, and Zocor muscle injury. An experienced Zocor lawyer is best qualified to evaluate each complaint on a case-by-case basis.

Statin side effects assessed in JUPITER, a pharmaceutical-funded study

The published analysis was designed to, “address the balance of vascular benefits and diabetes hazard of statin use.” To do so, researchers analyzed information from the JUPITER study, a randomized, double-blind trial of 17,603 men and women. Study participants had no history of diabetes or cardiovascular disease, and were assigned either a placebo or rosuvastatin 20mg (Crestor) for up to five years. The primary endpoints for each participant included stroke, myocardial infarction, or cardiovascular death, while secondary endpoints extended to venous thromboembolism, incident physician-reported diabetes, and all-cause mortality.

Statins cause 28% increase in diabetes for high-risk patients

Diabetes is a dangerous and serious condition. It entails permanent lifestyle changes and can lead to painful injuries and death. For many, the benefits of a medication may never outweigh the risk of developing diabetes, but statistically speaking, the numbers favor statin drugs. For example, the JUPITER trial found that for high-risk individuals, statins were associated with a 39% reduction in primary endpoints and a 17% reduction in total mortality; by comparison, they caused a 28% increase in diabetes. For trial participants without any risk factors for diabetes, statins were found to reduce primary endpoints by 52%, death by 22%, and to have no increase in diabetes risk.

Statins are associated with other side effects as well as increased risk of diabetes

For patients on simvastatin, one of the most serious dangers is Zocor muscle injury, including rhabdomyolysis. Additionally, the drug is associated with memory loss and liver injury. Patients suffering from any side effects should contact a Zocor lawyer for an evaluation of his or her claims.

]]>http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/08/study-analysis-finds-statin-benefits-outweigh-statistical-risks/feed/0Zocor and the FDA: A Historical Reviewhttp://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/08/zocor-fda-historical-review/
http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/08/zocor-fda-historical-review/#commentsWed, 15 Aug 2012 00:38:26 +0000http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/?p=3269Read more »]]>The FDA approved Zocor (simvastatin) for use as a cholesterol-lowering statin in 1991. Manufactured and sold by Merck & Co., Zocor was originally available in 5, 10, 20, 40, and 80 mg tablets. In June 2011, however, the FDA warned about the risks of the highest dosage (80 mg), citing a link between it and Zocor muscle injury. The agency recommended that physicians limit the use of this dose and refrain from prescribing to new patients.

This warning was one of many issued by the FDA over the years. Critics say the agency was slow to respond to the risk of injury with Zocor, however. Many patients who suffered from serious Zocor side effects like muscle injury, rhabdomyolysis, kidney failure, and heart disease, have hired a Zoloft lawyer and filed a lawsuit in an attempt to hold Merck liable for failing to warn of the risks.

FDA warns of Zocor muscle injury in 2008

In 2005, Zocor became Merck’s highest-grossing product reaching sales of $4.3 billion. In June 2006, the company’s patent expired and generic versions became available.

As early as 2008, however, the FDA began issuing warnings and public safety communications concerning Zocor. On August 8, 2008, they issued an alert notifying the public of a “rare condition of muscle injury called rhabdomyolysis, which can lead to kidney failure or death, when simvastatin is used with amiodarone.” Amiodarone is a medication used to control a heart rhythm problem.

The agency added that the Zocor warning label had been adjusted to reflect this risk in 2002, but that reports of patients treated with both medications and suffering side effects were still coming in.

Zocor lawyer likely to refer to FDA 2010 warning

A lawyer representing a plaintiff in a Zocor lawsuit is likely to refer to the March 19, 2010 news release by the FDA. The agency furthered their 2008 warning by notifying the public and healthcare practitioners of the potential for Zocor to increase risk of muscle injury when taken at the 80 mg dose—even when taken alone.

“Rhabdomyolysis is the most serious form of myopathy,” the agency stated, “and can lead to severe kidney damage, kidney failure, and sometimes death.”

The agency followed up on June 8, 2011, with a warning advising physicians to “sharply curtail” their use of the 80 mg dose, and continue it only in patients who had been taking it for 12 months or longer with no ill effects.

Patients filing a Zocor lawsuit

On March 1, 2012, the FDA issued another drug safety communication, this time warning of concerning interactions between drugs for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV) and statins like Zocor. Taken together, the drugs may increase the risk for Zocor muscle injury, the warning noted.

Patients who have suffered severe muscle injury, rhabdomyolysis, or kidney failure may be eligible to file a lawsuit. A plaintiff’s Zocor lawyer is likely to claim that manufacturer Merck failed to warn about the risks in a timely manner, particularly those related to the highest dose of the medication (80 mg).

]]>http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/08/zocor-fda-historical-review/feed/0Zocor Rhabdomyolysis: An Overviewhttp://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/07/zocor-rhabdomyolysis-overview/
http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/07/zocor-rhabdomyolysis-overview/#commentsTue, 31 Jul 2012 17:49:07 +0000http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/?p=3256Read more »]]>One of the most serious side effects linked with the use of Zocor (simvastatin), a cholesterol-lowering drug, is rhabdomyolysis, a type of muscle wasting. In June 2011, the FDA warned that those who were taking the highest dose (80 mg) were at a significant increased risk for muscle injury, which can lead to rhabdomyolysis.

Patients who have suffered from this side effect have consulted a Zocor lawyer to determine if they are eligible to file a lawsuit.

Zocor muscle injury

Rhabdomyolysis is a condition in which a patient’s muscles are gradually broken down. The causes may vary, but typically involve some type of trauma or injury. A prolonged coma, genetic muscle diseases, some viruses and bacteria, over-intense exercising, and drug and alcohol intoxication can also lead to the condition.

Zocor rhabdomyolysis differs from standard muscle injury, however, in that it involves the release of proteins into the bloodstream. As the injury or other trauma breaks down the muscle tissues, they may release a protein called “myoglobin” and an enzyme called “creatine kinase” into the blood. The level of these components can be measured by a blood test, which can alert doctors to the presence of rhabdomyolysis, which is also called “muscle wasting.”

How can I tell if I have rhabdomyolysis?

Patients with rhabdomyolysis don’t always experience symptoms. Often, however, muscle aches and pain, stiffness, muscle weakness, muscle swelling, and brown or dark-colored urine signal the presence of rhabdomyolysis. These symptoms should be reported to a doctor right away.

Left untreated, Zocor rhabdomyolysis can result in kidney problems and eventual kidney failure. This is because the kidneys have to work harder to filter out the proteins and enzymes being released into the bloodstream by the injured muscles, and can become overwhelmed.

How is Zocor rhabdomyolysis treated?

Once a doctor has confirmed a diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis, the first step is to eliminate the cause of the condition. The first step for patients taking Zocor will likely be to discontinue the medication. Doctors may also get more fluids into the body through mouth or intravenously (IV). If caught early, this step will often completely reverse the condition.

In more severe cases, the patient may need to be hospitalized to monitor and manage kidney dysfunction. Long-term kidney damage may need to be treated with dialysis.

Injured patients eligible for Zocor lawsuit

The FDA first warned about Zocor myopathy, or muscle injury, in 2009. They issued another warning in 2010, and then the dosage alert in 2011. That year, the agency reported they had received over 500 reports of rhabdomyolysis caused by cholesterol-lowering drugs, with Zocor causing the highest number of cases (123). Still, experts believe the condition is largely underreported.

Patients injured by Zocor rhabdomyolysis have often secured the advice of a Zocor lawyer, to hold manufacturer Merck & Co liable for failing to warn of the risks.

]]>http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/07/zocor-rhabdomyolysis-overview/feed/0Zocor Warnings and Side Effectshttp://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/07/zocor-warnings-and-side-effects/
http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/07/zocor-warnings-and-side-effects/#commentsThu, 26 Jul 2012 17:58:37 +0000http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/?p=3252Read more »]]>Zocor is a drug typically administered to people to help regulate their high cholesterol levels. The drug is manufactured by Merck and Co., and is the second most popular drug worldwide, constituting more than $4.3 billion in 2005, the year the drug’s patent expired.

However, despite its widespread use, Zocor is not free of side effects, according to the FDA and several medical studies. Due to significant numbers of complications associated with the use of the drug, as well as reports of adverse interactions with other medications, the FDA has issued several warnings to notify users of associated risks.

Zocor Muscle Injury Side Effects

Starting in 2002, the FDA began to issue warnings pertaining to Zocor, noting that some users had experienced liver damage and increased rates of myopathy, a type of Zocor muscle injury. According to one study, nearly 1% of all patients who received 80 mg doses of the drug experienced some kind of muscle damage in conjunction with using the medication.

Additional Zocor side effects include rhabdomyolsis, cardiomyopathy and liver disease. In the most extreme cases, patients develop rhabdomyolysis when muscle cells break down and cause damage to the kidneys. Zocor rhabdomyolsis is a treatable condition, but if left untreated can cause kidney failure. People who experience Zocor cardiomyopathy may be at risk for arrythmia or sudden cardiac death.

Zocor FDA Warnings and Additional Studies

In 2009, the FDA issued a warning about simvastatin, the generic name for Zocor, and its link to myopathy. The agency issued another warning in March 2010 as part of an ongoing investigation of Zocor and other statin medications. In June 2011, the FDA issued yet another warning, noting that those most susceptible to the myopathy as a direct result of Zocor were those who were taking 80 milligram doses of the drug and had been taking such doses for less than one year.

When results of the SEARCH study (Study of Effectiveness of Additional Reductions in Cholesterol and Homocysteine) were released, the FDA ordered doctors to stop prescribing the 80 mg dose and required the drugmaker to update its warning label.

The most recent safety communication released by the FDA with regard to Zocor concerned still new side effects. On February 28, 2012, the FDA stated that the label would once again be updated to reflect risk of memory loss or related cognitive effects and type 2 diabetes as a result of increased blood sugar levels.

Filing a Zocor Lawsuit

Patients who have suffered Zocor muscle injury or any injury resulting from treatment with simvastatin may be eligible to receive compensation for their ordeal. Zocor lawyers are offering complimentary consultations and can answer any question with regard to pending litigation.

]]>http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/07/zocor-warnings-and-side-effects/feed/0Zocor Side Effects Led to Kidney Failure, Claims Plaintiffhttp://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/07/zocor-side-effects-led-kidney-failure-claims-plaintiff/
http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/2012/07/zocor-side-effects-led-kidney-failure-claims-plaintiff/#commentsTue, 17 Jul 2012 17:53:37 +0000http://zocorlawsuit-info.com/?p=3240Read more »]]>A new lawsuit filed in Louisiana alleges that Zocor side effects led to kidney failure for the plaintiff. The lawsuit was filed in U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Louisiana on June 1, 2012, and names numerous defendants in the complaint who were responsible for marketing, selling, and distributing the anti-cholesterol drug Zocor. Plaintiff Danielle Woolens claims the defendants concealed the risks of Zocor muscle injury from the medical community and general public.

Zocor side effects: muscle injury

Although this Zocor lawsuit cites kidney failure as the reason for filing the complaint, this type of side effect typically stems from Zocor muscle injury, known as myopathy. When the muscle injury progresses, muscle fibers actually break down in the body and release a substance known as myoglobin. This condition is known as rhabdomyolysis. When fiber particles travel to the kidneys, the result can be kidney damage and renal failure, as in the case of this plaintiff.

In 2011, the FDA issued a warning regarding Zocor, stating that higher 80 mg doses significantly increased the risk for muscle injury, and recommended that physicians stop prescribing the higher amounts to new patients. However, more than two million people in the U.S. had already been taking the higher dosage, leaving many of them vulnerable to the related Zocor side effects.

Zocor lawsuit claims plaintiff took drug for 10 years

The plaintiff claims she took Zocor for 10 years, until August, 2010. At that time, Woolens suffered from kidney failure, a condition she directly attributes to her Zocor use. The plaintiff’s Zocor lawyer allege that as a result of her diagnosis, the plaintiff will continue to suffer from pain, lost wages and earning capacity, embarrassment, and emotional distress. The plaintiff also continues to cope with ongoing medical bills and loss of enjoyment of life.

Woolens claims she was unaware of the risks of Zocor side effects when she began taking the drug to treat high cholesterol levels. The plaintiff accuses Zocor manufacturer Merck of “concealing” serious risks associated with their product, and continuing to market the drug despite knowledge that its use could lead to serious problems like myopathy and rhabdomyolysis.

In addition to listing Merck as a defendant, Woolens names other companies involved with the manufacturing and distribution of the drug. These companies include Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Teva Pharmaceuticals, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, and Ranbaxy Laboratories.